An independent publication
Relationships beyond monogamy, explored with care.
Thoughtful, well-sourced writing and practical tools on Ethical Non-Monogamy, polyamory and open relationships. No single right way to love, just better information.
There is more than one way to love well. Let’s talk about them honestly.
Explore by topic
Understanding ENM
Key terms, structures and first questions
Polyamory & structures
Hierarchy, solo poly, triads, polycules
Communication & agreements
Boundaries, check-ins, difficult talks
Jealousy & emotions
Compersion, insecurity, attachment
Identity & intimacy
Sexuality, gender, desire, connection
From the publication
Polyamory & structures
Couple Privilege in Non-Monogamous Relationships
The advantages society gives to couples are easy to miss when you hold them. What couple privilege is, how it shows up in open and polyamorous relationships, and what more equitable practice can look like.
Jealousy & emotions
Compersion in ENM: The Art of Joy in Others’ Happiness
Communication & agreements
What is the Difference Between Rules and Boundaries?
Polyamory & structures
Polysaturated, Polyamory, and Emotional Limits
Understanding ENM
What is The Relationship Escalator?
Reading path
New to Ethical Non-Monogamy?
Four pieces, in order, that cover the basics without assuming anything about where you’ll end up.
Resources
Practical tools from ENM Living
Worksheets, journals and guides to work through on your own or with partners. Instant PDF download.
What readers tell us
“The communication tips I found here helped me and my partner establish healthier boundaries in our relationship.”
Ellie P., San Diego · reader email
“Exploring ENM felt intimidating at first, but this blog gave me the confidence to embrace what feels authentic to me.”
Claire T., Austin · reader email
“This blog breaks it down in a way that feels accessible and non-judgmental.”
Tyler M., Edinburgh · reader email
About ENM Living
An independent publication, started by Anna
I started ENM Living after realising that traditional monogamy wasn’t the path for me, and finding more stereotypes than good information when I talked about it. Today it’s an independent publication and a growing library of practical tools for anyone exploring relationships on their own terms. We’re not here to say non-monogamy is better than monogamy. We believe in informed choice, honest communication, respect, equality and privacy, and in making room for every kind of loving relationship.
Featured in
What is Solo Polyamory?
Dirtbag Christian (Substack) · contribution
ENM Relationships 101
Almaz Ohene (Substack) · contribution
What we stand for
No hierarchy of relationships
We don’t argue that non-monogamy is better than monogamy. We help you choose with good information.
Inclusive by default
We write for every gender, sexuality and relationship structure, and we keep listening to the voices we may be missing.
Consent and honesty first
Every relationship style we write about rests on informed consent, open communication and care for everyone involved.
Common questions
What is Ethical Non-Monogamy?
An umbrella term for relationships where people have, or are open to, more than one romantic or sexual relationship, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Read the full guide to ENM.
Is ENM the same as polyamory?
Polyamory is one form of ENM. ENM also includes open relationships, swinging, relationship anarchy and more. Polyamory explained.
How is ENM different from cheating?
Consent and honesty. In ENM, everyone involved knows about and agrees to the relationship structure. What cheating means in open relationships.
Do you think non-monogamy is better than monogamy?
No. We believe in informed choice. Our aim is to help you understand your options, not to tell you which one to choose. What you need to know about monogamy.